As Christmas approaches, a key piece of advice has been issued for those planning to send out festive cards this year. Royal Mail has announced an upcoming increase in the price of first-class stamps, set to rise to £1.65 on October 7. Meanwhile, second-class stamps will remain at 85p. This news comes as Royal Mail faces financial challenges, with the price hike following a previous increase in April. Despite the rise, the universal service requirements have not changed for over two decades, prompting the need for adjustments to ensure financial sustainability.
Acknowledging the impact of this price hike on sending Christmas cards, finance expert Martin Lewis has shared a money-saving tip to help individuals reduce costs while maintaining the tradition of sending festive greetings. Lewis suggests stocking up on stamps ahead of the price increase, noting that stamps without a specified price remain valid even after a hike. By purchasing stamps in advance, especially for Christmas cards in the upcoming years, individuals can save on postage costs.
However, Lewis advises caution when purchasing stamps in bulk to avoid counterfeit products. He recommends buying stamps from reputable outlets and retaining receipts for verification. Additionally, stamps can be purchased directly from the Royal Mail online shop, with free delivery available on orders over £50. By utilising this hack and planning ahead, individuals can manage their Christmas card expenses effectively and ensure timely delivery to loved ones.
As the holiday season approaches, the rise in stamp prices serves as a reminder to take proactive steps to keep costs down while spreading festive cheer through traditional card-sending. Planning ahead and making strategic purchases can help navigate financial challenges and maintain the joy of exchanging Christmas greetings with family and friends.